But times have changed and they have been pedestrianised for more than 40 years. As the council considers a permanent traffic ban on Pinstone Street, we dug out old photos and asked readers for their memories of when the car was king. Thanks to Sheffield Archives.
1. The Moor, 1963-4.
The Moor with John Atkinson department store, right, looking towards Lansdowne Road flats under construction in the distance. Photographer: Albert Coe On Twitter, @brownncream said: ‘Mistake (closing The Moor) if you ask me. Took life away from the street. Life moves on. Better now, but Manpower Services Commission building cut off the south from the city.’ Photo: .
2. Fargate 1937.
Looking towards High Street and Kemsley House, 1937. Will SW @bestnot87: ‘Must've been an air quality nightmare. Meadowhall is why town is so depleted now. Bringing back motor vehicles is a fool's idea.’ Photo: .
3. Fargate. Period: 1940-1959.
John Pritchett: "The whole of Sheffield was incredibly vibrant. But it was so stretched out you'd have duplicates. Two M&S's, two BHS's and two Woolworths. Greenery and fountains are no substitute for lots of people." Photo: ,
4. Fargate and Town Hall Square, 1954.
Albany Hotel and Yorkshire Penny Bank, right. Photo: .